How to Sniff Out Rental Scams

November 19, 2025

At Hornig Companies, we know finding a home is about more than a building - it’s about feeling confident and supported throughout your rental journey. We work to provide a transparent and respectful rental experience.

Unfortunately, rental scams have become increasingly common, and they can make the search for a home feel confusing and overwhelming. As a longtime Minnesota-based property management company, we want to help you navigate the process with clarity and peace of mind.

In this guide, we’ll share how to recognize the warning signs of rental scams, what to avoid, and what to do if you think you’ve come across a fraudulent listing - so you can move forward with confidence.



What is a Rental Scam?

A rental scam occurs when someone misrepresents a rental property, the lease terms, or their role as a landlord or agent in order to steal money from potential renters.


Scammers might list properties that don’t exist, aren’t available, or aren’t theirs to rent. They may use fake websites or even legitimate platforms like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace to trick you into sending deposits or personal information.


Signs a Listing is Fake!

No two scams are exactly alike, but here are some common warning signs renters in Minnesota should be aware of:


1. The Listing Looks Copied or Vague

Scammers often duplicate legitimate listings from reputable sites, changing only the contact information. Be cautious of ads with stock-like photos, missing details, or listings that appear in multiple places with inconsistent information.


2. No Lease Is Provided

Every reputable property management company in Minnesota, including Hornig Companies, provides a clear lease. If a “landlord” refuses or delays sharing a lease, consider that a red flag.


3. The Property Address Can’t Be Verified

If you're unsure about a property, do a quick search of the address. Verify that it's an actual building, not a vacant lot or commercial property. In some cases, scammers list foreclosed or already-rented properties.


4. You're Asked to Wire Money

Never wire money, send gift cards, or pay cash to someone you haven’t met, especially if you haven’t seen the property. This is one of the most common signs of a scam. Hornig Companies will never ask for payment before a property is toured.


5. Payment Is Requested Before You See the Unit

If you're told to send money just to hold the apartment or guarantee a spot before viewing it, that’s a major warning sign. In fact, it’s against Fair Housing to hold a unit for someone. In-person or virtual tours should always come before any financial commitment.


6. Tours Are Denied or Require Payment

If the “agent” claims the owner is out of the country or refuses to show the property until after you’ve paid, it’s best to walk away. Reputable managers schedule tours, not make excuses.


7. The Rent Seems Too Good to Be True

If the rent listed is far below market rates for that neighborhood, be suspicious. Scammers use attractive pricing to get attention quickly. Always compare similar properties in the area before jumping at an unusually low offer.


Reporting Rental Scams

If you think you’ve encountered or fallen victim to a rental scam, take action right away:

•Contact the FTC: File a complaint at reportfraud.ftc.gov

•Reach Out to Local Law Enforcement: Report the fraud to your local police department.

•Contact the Property Management Company: If you see a rental advertisement for Hornig Companies and it looks fishy, let us know! (info@hornigcompanies.com)

•Notify the Platform: Let the site (like Craigslist or Facebook) know so the listing can be removed.

•Contact the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office: Visit www.ag.state.mn.us or call (651) 296-3353 for consumer protection resources.


Trust Local Experts

We understand how overwhelming this process can be - that’s why we’re here to offer peace of mind every step of the way.


With over 60 years of trusted experience, Hornig Companies has been a reliable provider of quality rental housing since 1958. As a proud, local, family-operated company based in the Twin Cities, we own and manage every property we rent, no third parties, no confusion, and no scams.


Whether you're exploring new listings or ready to apply, we make the process secure and seamless through our resident portal. And if you ever have a question, our team is just a phone call or message away.


Avoid the stress of scams and discover how renting can be safe, simple, and personal with Hornig Companies: Where Home Is.


Ready to make your move?

Explore our available listings and apply online at HornigCompanies.com or contact a property directly to schedule a tour.

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